Castelvetro di Modena: Towers, History and Tradition

Castelvetro di Modena combines a compact historic centre with towers, cultural spaces and a strong food and wine culture. When looking for a hotel for your stay, you can choose your focus based on whether you are interested in architectural history and literature, Lambrusco Grasparossa, traditional balsamic vinegar or recurring events. The historic centre, also known as Castello, was once surrounded by walls; its compact layout, with towers and bell towers, has been preserved.

Towers, Fortifications and Historic Spaces

On the eastern side of the Castello, the Torre dell’Orologio preserves part of the old fortifications. The tower dates from the 11th or 12th century. The Torre delle Prigioni, by contrast, was built in the second half of the 16th century. Their different construction dates reflect distinct historical periods. Castello di Levizzano also bears the mark of its defensive purpose: it was built as a stronghold against the Hungarians. The Stanze dei Vescovi in the Castello date from the 16th century and retain their frescoed ceilings.

The Museo Rosso Graspa is located on the ground floor of Castello di Levizzano. It is dedicated to the history and culture of the Castelvetro area and its important local product, Lambrusco Grasparossa. Architectural history, preserved rooms and regional culture come together here in different ways: from the former defensive structure to the story of the area.

Literature and Historical Depictions

Palazzo Rangoni connects Castelvetro with the poet Torquato Tasso: in 1564, the building hosted Tasso. In the Sala del Tasso, monochrome medallions refer to the poet’s works, while four paintings depict different stages of his life. The room thus brings together literary references and biographical depictions.

The permanent exhibition Fili d’oro a Palazzo displays garments made by volunteers from the Associazione Dama Vivente for historical reenactments. Alongside the Tasso references, it offers another way to explore Castelvetro’s cultural history: through literature and stages of a life on the one hand, and clothing created for historical pageants on the other.

Lambrusco and Aceto Balsamico

The Acetaia Comunale houses two sets of seven barrels each for producing Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena. The barrels are made from oak, chestnut, ash, acacia and cherry wood. The number of barrels and the different types of wood give the subject a tangible, material dimension. Lambrusco, by contrast, draws attention to growing conditions: Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro di Modena is a traditional flagship product of the area. Its cultivation is shaped by factors including climate, soil, the orientation of the fields, vineyard slope and rainfall. The two products therefore highlight different aspects: barrels and wood at the Acetaia, and growing conditions and climate for the wine.

In 2026, free guided tours of the Acetaia Comunale are scheduled for the last Sunday of each month, with advance reservations required. There are two tours, at 3:30 pm and 4:15 pm. Book in advance and check that your preferred time is available before your visit.

Festivals in Piazza Roma

The black-and-white chessboard paving of Piazza Roma serves as the playing field for a historic game of living draughts. This is why the square is also known as Piazza della Dama; the game takes place in even-numbered years. In odd-numbered years, Festa a Castello is held in Piazza Roma. The event immerses visitors in a 16th-century atmosphere and traditionally includes food, performances, fire displays and historical dances. The year makes it easy to tell them apart: the draughts game takes place in even-numbered years, while Festa a Castello is held in odd-numbered years.

Another recurring event is the Sagra dell’Uva e del Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro. It takes place every year on the third and fourth weekends of September and includes tastings, music, art, entertainment and in-depth activities. As individual programmes may change, check the specific dates and current event programme before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Colombaro, Montese, Zocca, Le Tagliole, Lama Mocogno, Polinago, Cavezzo, Novi di Modena.

Return to the main travel overview: Modena.